How Do We Make Carnival Day an Educational Event?

Cultural exploration and learning lie at the heart of Ayhay's mission, making each Carnival Day an enriching experience for students, faculty, and staff.

Following the success of the 2022 celebration under the theme of “Career Aspirations” and the 2023 celebration, which spotlighted "Famous People and Places in the World," this annual event maintains a tradition of educational excellence and cultural immersion.

Selection of Carnival themes

Career Aspirations

Every year, the faculty and staff select the Carnival theme based on a unit in the Cultural Studies or LifeSkills subjects. Ayhay's Carnival Day in 2022 explored the theme of "Career Aspirations" where students embraced various roles, from aspiring chefs, policemen, and doctors to innovators, basketball players, and firefighters. This theme allowed students to envision their future paths, fostering a sense of ambition and exploration.

Famous People & Places around the world

In 2023, Ayhay's Carnival Day paid tribute to a selection of international and national famous people and places, each of whom/which left an indelible mark on history.

From the towering figure of Nelson Mandela in South Africa, whose firm commitment to justice and equality inspired millions around the globe, to luminaries such as Mahatma Gandhi, Rosa Parks, and Marie Curie, students were immersed in the life stories and legacies of these iconic individuals.

Famous People in Madagascar

Drawing from Malagasy history and culture, Ayhay celebrated the rich heritage of Madagascar by honoring national heroes such as Rado the poet, whose lyrical verses captured the soul of the Malagasy people, and Rasalama, the fearless martyr whose courage and sacrifice ignited the flame of independence. Other notable figures included Professor Ratsimamanga, a Malagasy researcher and scientist, and Jean-Joseph Rabearivelo, a visionary poet whose words continue to resonate with readers today.

Through interactive exhibits, creative performances, and engaging activities, students have the opportunity to research deeper into the lives and achievements of these remarkable individuals, gaining a deeper understanding of their impact on the world. From exploring the landscapes of Mandela's South Africa to immersing themselves in the poetry of Rado, Carnival Day served as a vibrant tapestry of learning and discovery.

2024's theme: the Tribes of Madagascar

Under the theme "Tribes of Madagascar," each class will embark on a journey of discovery, exploring the geographic locations, histories, traditional clothing, dialects, and cuisines of various tribes and ethnic groups. From the Tsimihety to the Antandroy, students across all age groups have eagerly deepened their research, uncovering the unique customs, traditions, and ways of life that define each tribe in Madagascar.

Carnival Day: an educational event

The Carnival Day at Ayhay is not just about learning facts and figures; it's about fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of different cultures, people, places and aspirations. Through hands-on activities, interactive displays, and presentations, students have the opportunity to showcase their newfound knowledge and celebrate their aspirations and the rich diversity of Madagascar and international cultural heritage. Additionally, the Carnival is an integral part of the school's educational curriculum, designed to promote cross-cultural understanding and vision for the future.

As we eagerly anticipate the festivities, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to the parents, teachers and staff who have worked tirelessly to organize this educational extravaganza.

Together, let us continue to celebrate diversity, honor our shared heritage, and cultivate a spirit of curiosity and understanding.